Rubin began his 1-year renewable fellowship this past July. He was selected based on his scholarship record and work experience. His research interests include Middle East politics and international security, with a specific focus on intra-regional politics, non-state actors, and nuclear proliferation. He has held positions at the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy, Council on Foreign Relations, RAND Corporation, and the Belfer Center or Science and International Affairs at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Rubin has published in peer-reviewed journals and is the author and editor of three books, including The End of Strategic Stability? Nuclear Weapons and the Challenge of Regional Rivalries (Georgetown University Press, 2018) co-edited with School Chair Adam Stulberg.

IISS is a British research institute focused on providing objective information in the areas of geopolitical and geo-economic, and military developments that could result in conflict. The think tank has served businesses, governments, experts, and media for 60 years through its publications, promotion of dialogue to enhance global security, and renowned experts, who produce reliable data. 

Rubin joined the School is 2010 after completing his Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles. At the Sam Nunn School, he has served as director of graduate studies and is now leading an Ivan Allen College initiative to create a semester in DC.